Legal Definitions - surface water

Surface water refers to water that is found on the surface of the earth, such as in streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans. It can come from rain, springs, or melting snow. Surface water is different from groundwater, which is found beneath the earth's surface in permeable rock or soil.

Examples of surface water include:

• A stream flowing through a forest
• A lake in a national park
• The ocean along a coastline

These examples illustrate how surface water is visible and accessible to people and animals. It can be used for recreational activities like swimming and fishing, as well as for drinking water and irrigation.